"Our countries are constructively cooperating in all areas both in bilateral affairs and on international arena," said Lavrov. "We have a very intensive dialogue at highest levels, and close consultations have been established between our ministries."

Lavrov further said Russia "is interested in increasing our cooperation with Iran to assist settlement of various crisis situations in the Middle East and North Africa."

"We are convinced that our countries' involvement in these efforts will yield a result meeting the interests of the region's peoples," he said.